Hadith #9695

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

المروءة من كل خناء عرية برية

which translates to

Magnanimity is bereft and devoid of every [form of] vulgarity.

This wise utterance of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the essence of true nobility and honorable conduct.

Let us delve into the meanings of the key words in this Hadith. (al-muru'ah) "المروءة" refers to magnanimity, nobility, and honorable behavior. It encompasses qualities such as generosity, kindness, integrity, and chivalry. (khana) "خناء" refers to vulgarity, disgrace, and indecency. It represents all forms of immoral and ignoble behavior, including dishonesty, rudeness, and indecent speech. (ariyah) "عرية" means bereft or devoid, indicating that true magnanimity is completely free from any form of vulgarity. (buriyah) "برية" means pure or untainted, emphasizing the purity and righteousness of magnanimous conduct.

To further understand the significance of this Hadith, let us turn to the Quran for guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13),

O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.

This verse emphasizes that true nobility lies in righteousness and piety. It is not based on lineage, wealth, or worldly status. Similarly, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights that magnanimity is not merely a superficial display of wealth or power, but rather a reflection of one's inner character and moral values.

Another verse that sheds light on the concept of magnanimity is found in Surah Al-Isra (17:80), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And say: My Lord! Cause me to come in with a firm incoming and to go out with a firm outgoing. And give me from Thy presence a sustaining Power.

This verse highlights the importance of steadfastness and strength in character. A truly magnanimous person remains firm in their principles and values, regardless of the circumstances they face.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) statement serves as a reminder to Muslims that true nobility is not achieved through arrogance or belittling others, but through humility, kindness, and respect for all. It encourages us to strive for excellence in our conduct, treating others with dignity and compassion.

By embodying the qualities of magnanimity, we can positively impact our relationships, communities, and society as a whole. When we are generous with our time, resources, and knowledge, we uplift those around us and create an atmosphere of harmony and unity. Conversely, when we engage in vulgarity and indecency, we tarnish our own reputation and contribute to the erosion of moral values in society.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) wise utterance reminds us that true magnanimity is not limited to a particular time or place, but is a timeless virtue that should be cultivated and cherished by all Muslims. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the wisdom and strength to embody the noble qualities of magnanimity and protect us from all forms of vulgarity.